Explore the essential amino acid content of plant-based protein sources. Understanding amino acid profiles helps you combine foods for complete protein nutrition.
Essential amino acids are the building blocks of protein that your body cannot produce on its own. There are 9 essential amino acids that must come from your diet.
These include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
Complete proteins contain all 9 essential amino acids in adequate amounts. Plant-based complete proteins include quinoa, soy products, hemp seeds, and chia seeds.
Incomplete proteins can be combined throughout the day (like rice and beans) to get all essential amino acids.
